now republican senators and lindsay graham say they will not block a vote. next week, even if they end up voting against him. mike is live from washington. what are republicans saying about the delay. >> they say chuck hagel is a controversial nominee and time allows them important time to take a closer look at them. they obtained a letter that send to graham and another senator drafting a speech accusing the state department was an adjunct of the israeli foreign minister's office. ha gefl says he disavow the statement attributed to me. here is one of the recipients of that letter. >> so i'm glad that we have got more time to look. i am glad he answered my question about the comment he allegedly made. i think we're doing our job to scrutinize i think one of the most unqualified, radical choices for secretary of defense in a very long time. >> reporter: senator graham is hoping time will lead to them thinking twice. >> shep: republicans have been mad at him but what is reaction? >> president obama reminded folks that he a wartime hero. >> i think senator mcca